Interfaith, which serves an overwhelmingly low-income population in Bed-Stuy and is currently in bankruptcy proceedings, has until Thursday to resubmit a modified plan to the state health department to keep it open.

Hospital officials say they'll continue to pursue options to keep the facility open. Trustees have requested a meeting with the health department.

Meanwhile, plans are proceeding to close the financially strapped Long Island College Hospital. Among the protesters Wednesday were longtime neighbors.

"I am fighting for this hospital," said Josephine Musarella. "I was born there, I was raised there. I'm a fighter. I believe we need this hospital."